Children and young people from 3 years upwards will be able to discover Wells Cathedral’s history, stories and special places in an interactive and fun way with the help of new Explorer Backpacks launching in April 2024.

The backpacks have been designed to include all the tools needed to explore and discover Wells Cathedral and will complement new activity cards which, together with a map, create a brand new children’s trail.

When discovering a location on the map backpack carriers will be encouraged to find the matching activity card and the corresponding item from the bag. In the atmospheric Quire for example, they can look for the organ then play the organ sound box. At the clock, watching the jousting knights will prompt backpack-holders to ring a bell!

With lots of other fun tools to explore, including mini embroidered cushions to smell; a magnifying glass for close-up viewing; cuddly soft toy cats to stroke and a compass to help lead the way the backpacks and trail will really help to bring a visit to Wells Cathedral to life.

Jessica Witchell, Learning Manager, says

“Wells Cathedral already welcomes many families who enjoy our popular holiday activities of trails, crafts, music and storytelling. Now we’ve added something to help young people and their families interact with the special places in the Cathedral during their visit.

“We have focused on making the trail suitable for anyone who wants to experience the Cathedral using their senses and the backpacks contain lots of sensory items to help families engage with the building.

“There are plenty of ‘hands on’ things to see and do in England’s first gothic Cathedral!”

Explorer Backpacks are included with admission for the duration of the visit and can be picked up from the Cathedral’s Welcome Desk on arrival from 22 April 2024.